Chicago, IL – Former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. announced his candidacy Wednesday for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, marking a return to politics more than a decade after leaving office.
The launch came on a symbolic date—the 84th birthday of his father, civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson. “I’ve chosen this day to make a special announcement,” Jackson Jr. said in his campaign video. “The 84th birthday of a man who inspired my life to public service.”
According to his campaign, Jackson Jr. said he was “responding to a draft movement” urging him to re-enter the race. The announcement follows months of organizing by retired U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush and local leaders, who formed the Friends of Jesse Jackson Jr. for Congress 2026 Exploratory Committee.
A July poll commissioned by the committee reportedly showed Jackson Jr. leading the field of potential Democratic contenders ahead of the March 2026 primary.
In his campaign message, Jackson Jr. emphasized job creation, economic revitalization, and expanded access to healthcare as central priorities. “Every resident in the 2nd Congressional District should have access to a doctor and to care for mental health,” he said.
Jackson Jr. previously represented the district from 1995 to 2012, securing more than $968 million in federal grants and spearheading infrastructure and community projects throughout Chicago’s South Side and south suburbs.
For more information or to get involved, visit jessejacksonjrforcongress.com.
